A Year in Wine (& Photos): Oct-Nov-Dec '06

De Angelis Lacrima Christi del Vesuvio Rosso 2004 ($17)

"When Archangel Lucifer was cast out of heaven, he grasped a small divine chunk of heaven while falling to earth.  Lucifer placed this chunk in what is now the bay of Naples - Campania's capitol.  Missing this little chunk of heaven, the Lord cried over it and his tears rained down on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.  From these 'Lacrima Christi' sprang vines that later produced the grapes for this fancifully-named DOC wine."

Tasca d'Almerita's Regaleali Bianco Sicilia IGT, 2005 (~$11)

"Regaleali defies expectations with a zesty mouthfeel coupled to scents that can best be described as a vanilla-peach cream soda-pop minus HFCS.  This wine is indeed simple, but also unique and refreshing."

Kermit Lynch Cotes Du Rhone 2004 ($10-$13)

"Kermie's C.d.R. is ruby red in color with scents of tart red cherry, ripe raspberry and pepper.  In the mouth, the wine is dusty (#2 grit tannins) earthy (geriatric Syrah vines) and ever-so-slightly meaty (ahh, Mourvedre)."

Happy Belated Holidays